Argentina defeated Bolivia 4-0 in Córdoba, Argentina, on Wednesday in the team’s first international match since Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the national team, according to Associated Press reports. The comprehensive victory featured two goals in each half, offering a reassuring performance for the Albiceleste as they returned to action following their extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
Lautaro Martínez and Nicolás Paz Establish Early Control
Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring for Argentina in the 19th minute, capitalizing on early pressure against the Bolivian defense. Ten minutes later, Nicolás Paz doubled the lead with a 29th-minute strike to establish a comfortable 2-0 advantage before halftime. In the absence of Lionel Messi—who stepped away from international duty last month after earning 207 caps and scoring 125 goals—defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero captained the side, according to the Associated Press.
Cristian Romero and José Manuel López Seal the Victory
Argentina maintained control after the interval, adding two more goals to complete the 4-0 scoreline. Cristian Romero contributed to the scoresheet in the 54th minute, while substitute José Manuel “Flaco” López sealed the result in the 86th minute. The fixture marked a tactical pairing of Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez in the starting lineup.
Upcoming Farewell Match for Lionel Messi
Before concluding the current international window, Argentina will host Burkina Faso in a friendly match on Saturday. Following that fixture, the 39-year-old Lionel Messi will don the iconic No. 10 jersey one final time next Tuesday in an official farewell match against Benin in Buenos Aires, as reported by the Associated Press. Scaloni has not yet announced a permanent successor to inherit the number 10 shirt.
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